Our Mum's Legacy

Our mother was a phenomenal woman, in her private and public life. She showed grace, decorum and dedication in all she set out to do. Here are some details about her life and accomplishments

Early Life

Mrs. Lovinah Akiagba was born into the esteemed Ozaka family of Igbogene-Epie as Lovinah Abei Ozaka on July 27, 1952. She was the beloved daughter of Mr. Francis Ozaka, a respected indigene of Igbogene-Epie, and her mother, Mrs. Dorgu, a gracious woman from Agudama-Epie. Together, they were proud and devoted parents to four children - three sons and one daughter - with Lovinah being the only girl and the treasured jewel of the family.

From a young age, Lovinah displayed remarkable intelligence and an eagerness to learn. Her academic journey began at the St. Luke's Primary School, Agudama-Epie, where her curiosity and enthusiasm for knowledge quickly set her apart and where she obtained her First School Leaving Certificate in 1964. She continued to excel after at St. Jude's Girls Secondary School in Amarata, Bayelsa State, where she not only shone academically but also developed a strong sense of discipline, leadership, and compassion - qualities that would define her throughout her life. Her secondary education, after relocating to Port Harcourt, culminated in her obtaining her W.A.S.C in 1971 from Holy Rosary Girls Secondary School in Port Harcourt and a G.C.E thereafter in 1972.

Determined to pursue a career in education and service, she advanced to the Teacher Training College at the College of Education, where she earned her National Certificate in Education (N.C.E) in Chemistry/Biology Education in 1977. Her passion for teaching and dedication to academic excellence led her to further her studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, one of the nation's premier institutions. There, she successfully obtained a Bachelor's degree in Biology Education in 1982, a field that matched her inquisitive mind and love for the natural sciences. She was a proud member of the Science Teachers Association of Nigeria.

Throughout her life, Mrs. Akiagba remained deeply rooted in family and community. She is cherished not only by her immediate family but also by a wide circle of cousins, siblings, and relatives from both her paternal and maternal lineages. Over the years, she has also cultivated a vibrant network of friends, colleagues, former students, and well-wishers who continue to hold her in high regard.

Known for her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering support for others, Mrs. Akiagba has touched countless lives. Her legacy is not only one of academic and professional achievement, but of love, kindness, and an enduring commitment to family and community.

Family Life

Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Mrs. Lovinah Akiagba found deep fulfillment in her role as a wife, mother, and matriarch. She married into the Akiagba family to Chief C.E Akiagba of blessed memory, where she was warmly embraced and became a pillar of strength and wisdom. Her marriage was built on mutual respect, love, and a shared commitment to raising a close-knit, values-driven family.

Together with her husband, she raised children who reflect her dedication to excellence, humility, and service. As a mother, she was nurturing yet firm, instilling discipline, a strong moral compass, and a love for learning in her children. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and faith - a haven not just for her immediate family, but for relatives, friends, and anyone in need of guidance or support.

Mrs. Akiagba’s influence extended well beyond her household. She played the dual role of a caregiver and counselor to many in her extended family and community, often acting as a bridge between generations. Her ability to listen, offer wise counsel, and create a sense of belonging drew many to her and her home. She was instrumental in raising and educating several children in her family and community, who have now grown to become successful adults. She was known to offer financial support for school fees, and food. She opened up her home for extra-mural lessons for students to gain more knowledge. Her philanthropic nature extended to her communities of Igbogene-Epie and Isua-Joinkrama where she always donated food and clothing items to those in need throughout the year, and especially during the festive seasons. Her home was always a beehive of activities during these times, when members of the community came to feed from her pot.

Even in the face of life’s challenges, she remained a source of unwavering strength and grace, holding her family together with quiet resilience. Her legacy as a devoted wife, loving mother, doting grandmother, and dependable sister and aunt will continue to live on in the lives she shaped so beautifully.

Mrs. Lovinah Abei Akiagba is survived by her 5 biological children, step-children, 6 grandchildren, her brother - Mr. Fred Ozaka and a host of relatives who love and cherish her memory.